Gun Hill Signal Station
Key facts: St. George · $ · Sunday 9AM-5PM, Monday 9AM-5PM, Tuesday 9AM-5PM, Wednesday 9AM-5PM, Thursday 9AM-5PM, Friday 9AM-5PM, Saturday 9AM-5PM · Ages: all
Gun Hill Signal Station is a historic British military lookout built in 1818 in the parish of St. George, perched high enough to offer panoramic views across much of Barbados. It is one of a series of signal stations built to warn of approaching ships and slave rebellions, and is now managed by the Barbados National Trust. Open Monday to Saturday from 9AM.
About Gun Hill Signal Station
Gun Hill Signal Station stands on a hilltop in the parish of St. George, one of the finest and best preserved of a network of signal stations built across Barbados in 1818. The stations were constructed by the British military to relay warnings across the island, sighting ships approaching from sea and signalling alerts of potential slave rebellions between the garrison in Bridgetown and the interior.
A large white lion carved directly from the coral stone hillside below the station was added in 1868 by a British officer during his convalescence at Gun Hill and remains one of the most striking and unusual landmarks in Barbados.
Why Families Go
Gun Hill combines history, great views, and an unusual landmark in a single stop. The story of the signal station network is engaging for older children, and the carved lion is genuinely surprising and memorable for younger visitors.
What to Know Before You Go
Gun Hill is open Monday to Saturday from 9AM to 5PM. An admission fee applies. It is managed by the Barbados National Trust.
Family Fit
A good stop for families with children aged 8 and up who enjoy history and wide-open views. The carved lion adds a fun visual element that works for younger children too.
Questions parents ask
What is Gun Hill Signal Station?
Gun Hill Signal Station is a historic British military lookout built in 1818 in St. George, one of a network of stations used to relay warnings of approaching ships and potential uprisings across the island.
What is the carved lion at Gun Hill?
A large lion carved directly from the coral stone hillside below the station, created in 1868 by a British officer during his convalescence. It is one of the most unusual landmarks in Barbados.
What are the opening hours?
Monday to Saturday, 9AM to 5PM.
Is there an admission fee?
Yes. An admission fee applies. Gun Hill is managed by the Barbados National Trust.
What can you see from Gun Hill?
On a clear day the views from Gun Hill extend across much of Barbados, from the east coast to the west coast.
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